Good news for Dubai and Abu Dhabi residents – you can now get your flu shot for free! This announcement was made during the UAE’s annual national influenza campaign, which kicked off on Monday, September 9, and will run until March 2025. The campaign, organized in partnership with key health authorities such as Emirates Health Services (EHS) and the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), is aimed at protecting everyone in the community from the seasonal flu. Keep reading to find out all the key information that you need to know.
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Vaccine Accessibility In Abu Dhabi
The campaign makes the flu vaccine widely accessible to both UAE nationals and residents, with availability at 115 healthcare facilities and licensed pharmacies throughout Abu Dhabi. Dr Faisal Alahbabi, acting executive director of the Communicable Diseases Sector at ADPHC, emphasised that flu shots will also be delivered to the homes of those who may find it difficult to visit healthcare centres, such as the elderly and people with disabilities. Additionally, there will be awareness campaigns in multiple languages to make sure everyone knows the importance of getting vaccinated.
Affordable Vaccines In Dubai & Northern Emirates
For those living in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, the flu vaccine is available for as low as AED 50. EHS is also offering free vaccines to high-risk groups, which include pregnant women, children aged 6 months to 5 years, people with chronic diseases, and People of Determination. Dr. Shamsa Majid Lootah, director of Public Health at EHS, reassured that the vaccine has been safely administered for over 60 years and is crucial for protecting not just individuals but entire families.
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Who Should Get Vaccinated?
Flu season in the UAE generally starts in October, and this campaign encourages everyone – citizens, residents, healthcare workers, and government or private sector employees – to get vaccinated. Special attention is being given to high-risk groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions. While the flu shot may not completely prevent the flu, it does make symptoms far less severe if you do catch it.
High Effectiveness Of This Year’s Vaccine
This year’s flu vaccine is expected to be particularly effective. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the U.S., the strains included in this year’s vaccines closely match the ones currently circulating. Prof. Abuhammour explained that every year, the flu strains in the vaccine are updated based on the viruses from the previous flu season, and this year’s vaccine is well-matched to offer strong protection.
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